“From the moment a child is removed from their home, they often encounter their first interaction with law enforcement, setting a troubling precedent. As foster youth navigate these institutions, they encounter individuals who believe punitive consequences are an acceptable response...

Transitioning out of care is hard. But the four Lived Experience (LEx) Leaders and three FosterClub staff who attended Daniel Kids’ 35th Annual National Independent Living Conference gotchu.

This summer, our ‘23 AllStars from across the country trained for six weeks in foster care advocacy, put on two multi-day conferences to support youth currently in care, and made lasting friendships with fellow interns. It’s hard work–which includes traveling to Oregon for two weeks –but it’s worth it: On top of the six-week intensive summer program, AllStars will continue to be engaged in cool, impactful service opportunities like speaking at conferences and events and giving briefs to Congressional staffers.